One of my favourite types of sampler is a ‘band sampler’. As the name suggests, ‘bands’ of different stitches and patterns are worked across the fabric. Some of the earliest samplers from the 16th century are band samplers and included an enormous variety of stitches, both counted cross stitch, Algerian eye, hollie point, satin stitch, queen stitch, pulled thread, cut work and blackwork embroidery. These samplers were made from long, thin strips of linen and again were not intended to be decorative but to act as points of reference or aides-memoir to stitchers.
It is believed that these early samplers were sewn mainly by women, rather than by young girls as were those of a later date, and were intended truly as examples, both of designs and of different stitches, often covering every square inch of the fabric and then kept rolled up in a drawer to be referred to as necessary. These, now very valuable treasures, demonstrate the skill, diligence and patience of the embroiderers and leave us in awe of their talent.